Pope Benedict announced in March 2009 that the Church will celebrate a special year for priests to begin on June 19, the 150th anniversary of the death of the Cure d'Ars, St Jean Vianney. During the course of the Year of the Priest, Pope Benedict will proclaim St Jean Marie Vianney as the patron saint of all the priests of the world. The year will close June 19, 2010, with Pope Benedict presiding at a "World Meeting of Priests" in St Peter's Square.
It is only fitting that the "Meet the Priests" section should be added to the website during this Year. We often take our priests for granted, not getting to know them each on a personal, human level. It is our goal to give you an opportunity to meet and learn about a variety of priests and other religious in our area on a personal level
Suggested interview questions and topics include:
- Where were you born and where did you grow up?
- Describe a couple of Childhood memories and/or stories
- Describe your call (and/or discernment) to the priesthood or religious life.
- Interesting / favorite / notable experiences at seminary or during the seminary years.
- Discussion of first assignment, subsequent assignments, current assignment.
- What alternative career path(s) did you consider before the priesthood/religious life?
- Humorous, embarrassing, miraculous stories during a life of service.
- Favorites: saint, prayer, scripture verse, retreat, trip, place, food, movie, book, etc.
- Nicknames over your lifetime (and the stories behind them).
- Do you have a motto / adage / proverb that is special to you?
- What do you like to do for recreation or relaxation?
- If someone gave you one million dollars for charitable use, how would you spend it?
- What 'I learned over time' or "wished I knew then what I know now."
- What special gifts or graces has God given to you?
- Words of wisdom: suggestions for people considering a religious vocation.
- Other topics the priest or religious interviewee may wish to discuss.